To answer this question, we consider how two key properties
of network structure, social cohesion and network range,
affect the transfer process. Cohesion around a relationship
can ease knowledge transfer by decreasing the competitive
and motivational impediments that arise, specifically the fact
that knowledge transfer is typically beneficial for the recipient
but can be costly for the source. Dense third-partyti es
around the relationship may serve to overcome those impediments.
Network range-relationships that span multiple
knowledge pools-can also affect the transfer process. Networks
that span multiple communities of practice can give
people the ability to convey complex ideas to diverse audiences.
Network cohesion and network range are likely to
have distinct but complementary effects on knowledge transfer.
Whereas cohesion stresses the value of overlapping ties
among mutual third-parties, range points to the benefits
associated with network connections that span important
organizational boundaries.